Rigger Competence Assessment and Reassessment Standard Rev.2 Amendment 2 February 2022

Rigger Competence Assessment
and Reassessment Standard
Standard Title Code

Rigger Competence Assessment Standard 9099
Rigger Competence Reassessment Standard 9199
Rigger Competence Assessment and Reassessment Standard
OPITO PRODUCTS
OPITO is an Industry owned not for profit organisation that exists to service the needs of the Energy
Industry.
OPITO is industry led in all aspects of what it does, therefore all product development activities are at the
behest of industry. OPITO products are driven by the needs of industry to help create a safe and
competent workforce.
This product is owned and maintained by OPITO who are the nominated custodians of all products within
the OPITO portfolio which carry the OPITO logo.
This OPITO Standard has been designed to accommodate global variations in national legislation and
regulations. In the absence of relevant national legislation and regulations, OPITO approved centres
should use legislative and regulatory criteria specified within this Standard.
© OPITO
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval or information
storage system, or transmitted in any form or my any means, mechanical, photocopying, recording or
otherwise, without prior permission in writing of the publishers.
Revision 2 Amendment 2 (February 2022) Page 2 of 30

Rigger Competence Assessment/Reassessment Standard
Amendments
Amendment and Date Pages Changes Checked by Approved
made by by
Full 3-yearly review of the
Standard completed in March All
2011 Industry Work
J. Cameron
New Revision: Rev.1 M. Carr Group (IWG)
A7 & B7: changed wording to 11 & 20

1 clarify timings. M. Carr (IWG) J. Cameron
6-Apr 2011
Replaced Course Code with Title page,
Standard Code in Title Page and page 25
amended reference to ‘course
identification code’ with ‘OPITO
registration code’ under section
2 D.3 Certification - to align with M. Foo M. Carr P. Lammiman
other OPITO standards
Revision 1 Amendment 2
10-January 2013
Amendment 3 – January 2020 –

Appendix 1 removed
Revision 2 Standard Review Product Product Director

November 2021 Development Assurance (Products)
Manager Specialist
Revised terminology and
formatting to align with current Throughout
OPITO products. Document
Removal of stage references
Section A.2 – Amended Pages 8&9

prerequisite requirements
Updated Progression Guide to

incorporate new terminology and Page 6
ensure clarity.
Section B.5 - Additional guidance

regading Jacks and Machine Page 17
Skates where regional variations
occur.

Section A.6 – Updated practical

assessment guidance stating the
requirement for all equipment Page 13
listed in section B.5 to be used.
Section A.7 – Amended guidance

for rigging and lifting operations
to allow for additional flexibility Page 15
where necessary
1 November 2021 Product
Development
Removal of note regarding Manager
previously held OPITO certificates Page 6
to avoid ambiguity
Additional detail regarding

Learner prerequisites to ensure Pages 8&9
clarity.
Updated terminology and removal

of repeated information, to Page 7
ensure cross sector applicability
and clarity.
Updated Glossary Page 21
2 February 2022 Product

Development
Section A.2 - Amended Pages 8&9 Manager
prerequisite requirement for
Competence Assessment
Any amendments to this Standard by OPITO will be recorded above.

CONTENTS
Introduction ...................................................................................................................................... 6
SECTION A Rigger Competence Assessment and Reassessment ...................................................... 8
A.1 TARGET GROUP ............................................................................................................................... 8
A.2 PREREQUISITES ................................................................................................................................ 8
PREREQUISITES (CONTINUED) ......................................................................................................................... 9
A.3 PHYSICAL AND STRESSFUL DEMANDS ................................................................................................... 9
A.4 AIM AND OBJECTIVES...................................................................................................................... 10
A.5 OUTCOMES OF THE RIGGER COMPETENCE ASSESSMENT AND REASSESSMENT ........................................... 11
A.6 LEARNER COMPETENCE ASSESSMENT / REASSESSMENT......................................................................... 14
A.7 GUIDED LEARNING HOURS ............................................................................................................... 16
SECTION B Resources.................................................................................................................. 17
B.1 LOCATION OF ASSESSMENT .............................................................................................................. 17
B.2 STAFF .......................................................................................................................................... 18
B.3 ASSESSOR / LEARNER RATIO............................................................................................................. 18
B.4 FACILITIES ..................................................................................................................................... 19
B.5 EQUIPMENT .................................................................................................................................. 19
SECTION C Certification & Administration ................................................................................... 20
C.1 JOINING INSTRUCTIONS ................................................................................................................... 20
C.2 VALIDITY AND RENEWAL .................................................................................................................. 20
C.3 CERTIFICATION .............................................................................................................................. 20
C.4 ASSESSMENT ADMINISTRATION ........................................................................................................ 21
Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations ............................................................................................... 22
Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations (continued) ............................................................................. 23
Appendix 1: OPITO Rigger Competence Assessment / Reassessment Checklist and Record ............... 24

Introduction
Industry requested that OPITO develop a robust and auditable minimum standard for training and
competence assessment for the role of the Rigger. A rigger uses fixed and portable lifting equipment and
accessories to locate loads to a position to allow final installation or fixing or to move loads to a position
where they are accessible to a crane.
The Rigger’s route to competence certification and re-assessment is comprised of four key stages.
The four key stages are:
1) Rigger Initial Training

Learners successfully completing the Initial Training Programme will be awarded an OPITO
Rigger Initial Training certificate; this entitles the learner to progress onto supervised
workplace experience. The Certificate is valid for 2 years.
2) Rigger Workplace Experience Logbook

Supervised workplace experience specifies the series of supervised tasks which the learner will
be required to complete to gain relevant experience in the workplace. The learner must
complete a logbook record of the supervised tasks.
3) Rigger Competence Assessment

Rigger Competence assessment specifies the assessment process and criteria for the learner to
demonstrate competence in the Rigger role.
Successful learners will be awarded an OPITO certificate of competence.
The Certificate is valid for 2 years.
4) Rigger Competence Reassessment

Rigger Re-assessment of competence specifies the re-assessment criteria for riggers, who wish
to maintain their OPITO competence certification.
Successful learners will be awarded an OPITO certificate of competence.
The Certificate is valid for 2 years.
This standard specifies the Rigger Competence Assessment and Reassessment Standard prerequisites,
competence assessment and re-assessment requirement for the Rigger role.
The Rigger Initial Training Standard which is explained in a separate OPITO standard to this one, specifies
the Initial Training and workplace experience requirement for the prospective Rigger.

OPITO Rigger Standards: Four-Stage Progression Guide
Description Success Requirement Successful Unsuccessful

Learner awarded OPITO Rigger Initial Training
Rigger Initial
certificate [valid for 2 years] The learner will be required to retake the Rigger Initial Training
Training Achieved all Outcomes
and can progress to supervised workplace Programme
Programme experience.
Fully completed logbook of Supervised
Workplace Experience tasks (to be completed
within 2 years of gaining an OPITO Rigger
Initial Training certificate)
Each task must be signed and dated by a
Rigger Workplace Experience Logbook
competent witness
Rigger Workplace Certificate awarded. The Learner will become
The Rigger Workplace Experience Logbook The learner will be required to retake the Rigger Initial Training
Experience eligible to take the OPITO Rigger Competence
must also be signed by a senior employer Programme and complete Rigger Workplace Experience Logbook
Logbook Assessment – within 2 years of being awarded
representative on completion of all the tasks
the OPITO Rigger Initial Training certificate.
- while working for that employer.
Note: If the learner Rigger changes employer:
he/she will require a further signature from a
senior representative of the new company.
See key below for signatory role definitions
Successfully completed all OPITO Rigger Learner awarded an OPITO Rigger No certificate awarded. Learner must retake the OPITO Rigger
Competence Competence Assessment Units and achieve Competence Certificate [valid for 2 years] Competence Assessment.
Assessment 80% or greater in Knowledge Assessment Deemed competent to undertake the Rigger Learner’s employer to decide how to address the competence
written test. role. gap to allow the Rigger to continue in the role.
Learner awarded an OPITO Rigger Re
Successfully completed all Rigger No certificate awarded. Learner must retake the Rigger
assessment Competence Certificate [valid for
Reassessment of Reassessment Competence Assessment Units Competence Re assessment.
2 years]
Competence and achieve 80% or greater in Knowledge Learner’s employer to decide how to address the competence
Deemed competent to continue to undertake
Assessment written test. gap to allow the Rigger to continue in the role.
the Rigger role.
Rigger Workplace Experience
Signatory Role Definition
Logbook Signatory Role Title
A fully qualified Rigger who has worked on the task with the learner and witnessed them completing the Rigger Workplace Experience Logbook Task
Competent Witness
correctly.
Senior Employer
The employing company head of discipline or the employing company discipline manager
Representative

SECTION A Rigger Competence Assessment and Reassessment
A.1 Target Group

The target group for Rigger Competence Assessment are personnel that wish to become OPITO-certified
competent riggers - having successfully completed the OPITO Rigger Initial Training Standard and Rigger
Workplace Experience Logbook or possess sufficient and relevant work experience to be eligible for the
OPITO Rigger Competence assessment.
Rigger Competence Reassessment

The target group for Rigger Competence Reassessment are personnel that wish to renew their OPITO
Rigger Competence or Rigger Competence Reassessment certificate (two-year validity for each
certificate).
A.2 Prerequisites
Learners must possess:
Option 1
(a) A valid OPITO-approved Rigger Initial Training Certificate
And
(b) A fully completed and valid OPITO Rigger Workplace Experience Logbook and supporting evidence
for each of the 10 tasks*, such as a copy of the lifting plan, permit or toolbox talk, based on the OPITO
Rigger Initial Training Standard and Rigger Workplace Experience Logbook requirements. The logbook
must be signed as true and valid by the employing company head of discipline or the employing
company discipline manager and confirmed by the Centre as being present and correct prior to
assessment taking place.
*Supporting evidence is not required for learners who completed the Initial Training Standard
(previously Stage 1) between February 29th, 2020, and February 28th, 2022.
Or
(c) If a learner completed the Initial Training Standard (previously Stage 1) between February 29th, 2020,
and February 28th, 2022 and does not have a completed Workplace Experience Logbook, a formal letter
from a current employer, meeting the below criteria, may be accepted.
The letter must:
1) Be on company letterhead
2) State that the learner has met the equivalent of the OPITO (previously Stage 2) Workplace
Experience Logbook criteria
3) Include details of the senior employer representative’s position in the company, full contact
details, and be signed and dated by the senior employer’s representative

4) Be sent directly from the employer to the Centre prior to assessment and not provided by the
Learner
Option 2
(d) An OPITO Approved Rigger Competence Assessment or Re-Assessment Certificate awarded with the
previous 30 months.
Option 3
(e) Evidence that they have been assessed as competent and have achieved an equivalent
qualification/certification by a nationally recognised awarding body, awarded within the previous 30
months**.
Please note that after two years the certificate would no longer be valid (see Note 1 below).
Note 1: Learners who possess an OPITO Rigger Assessment or Re-Assessment Certificate which has
expired by more than 6 months will be required to attend the OPITO Rigger Initial Training prior to
undertaking the Rigger Competence Assessment. In these instances, there will be no requirement to
complete a Work Experience Logbook. Rigger Competence Assessment/Reassessment Standard
**It is the responsibility of the Centre to confirm and demonstrate appropriate recognition and
equivalency of the Learners qualification/certification.
Prerequisites (continued)
Rigger Competence Reassessment
Learners must possess a valid OPITO-approved Rigger Competence or Rigger Competence Reassessment
Certificate.
A.3 Physical and Stressful Demands
Training and/or assessment activities contained within this Product may include physically demanding and
potentially stressful elements. All personnel who participate in such activities must be capable of
participating fully.
Therefore, OPITO-approved Centres are required, to ensure that prior to participating in practical
exercises the learner undergoes medical screening by completing an appropriate medical screening form
provided by the OPITO-approved Centre
The OPITO-approved Centre shall keep a record of the learner’s declaration of fitness in accordance with
their document control policy(s) or procedures.
This information, along with summary details of the type of physical activities the learner will be asked to
perform, will be given to learners by the OPITO-approved Centre and, if applicable, to their sponsoring
company as part of the joining instructions. The responsibility for declaring any current or pre-existing
medical conditions that could have adverse effects to the individual’s state of health while undertaking
the training and/or assessment activities lies with the learner and/or company sponsoring the learner.

Where doubt exists regarding the fitness of any learner, the OPITO-approved Centre should direct the
individual to consult a medical officer familiar with the nature and extent of the training.
Note: Practical exercises should be designed and delivered solely to meet this Product and must not place
on the learners any demands other than those required to meet the Product.
A.4 Aim and Objectives
The aim and objectives of the Rigger competence assessment are to establish that the learner has the
required underpinning knowledge, understanding and practical skills to fulfill the role of Rigger safely and
effectively.
The aim and objectives of the OPITO Rigger Competence Reassessment are to establish that the learner
has maintained the competence requirements for the Rigger role.

A.5 Outcomes of the Rigger Competence Assessment and Reassessment
UNIT 1 – Prepare, Lift and Move Loads
Outcomes Criteria
The learner will understand:

1. 1.1 The hazards associated with a lifting operation
Preparation for 1.2 The purpose of a lifting plan and who produces one
lifting and 1.3 The purpose of a lifting risk assessment
moving of loads 1.4 Why a lifting plan must be followed and what to do if it is not
understood or cannot be followed
1.5 How to determine the weight of loads
1.6 The relevant roles of personnel involved in lifting operations, and typical
reporting lines
1.7 How to identify areas near the load where it is unsafe to stand
1.8 Load movement route planning methods and techniques
1.9 Areas of the installation/site which need special consideration if a load
needs to be landed near or passes close to those areas
1.10 Rigging principles, SWL, WLL and angles of lift
1.11 Why lifting equipment and lifting accessories are marked e.g. SWL and
WLL
1.12 Pre-use inspections of lifting equipment and lifting accessories
1.13 Considerations to ensure load stability, security and weight distribution
1.14 The types of faults that are possible with lifting equipment and lifting
accessories
1.15 The function of a toolbox talk
1.16 The key information to be included in handovers during lifting
operations
1.17 Types of lifting accessories
1.18 The vulnerability of synthetic slings to damage and their correct use
1.19 The purpose of a rigging loft and the quarantine system
1.20 How to take account of dynamic factors
2. 2.1 The capabilities and limitations of lifting equipment and lifting
Lifting, moving, accessories
lowering and 2.2 Pre use and post use inspections of lifting equipment and lifting
landing of a load accessories
2.3 How to identify and report defective lifting equipment, lifting
accessories and associated materials
2.4 How to correctly store various items of lifting equipment and lifting
accessories
2.5 How to restore the worksite and return lifting equipment and lifting
accessories to the required location
2.6 How to conduct post-work debriefings
The learner will be assessed against all outcomes and corresponding criteria.

Assessment Knowledge Outcomes

guidance Learners will be required to undertake a written or electronic knowledge
assessment test which covers the outcomes and corresponding criteria stated in
Outcomes 1 & 2 of Unit 1.
Specific knowledge assessment requirements are detailed in section A.6 of this
standard
The learner will be required to demonstrate the rigging and lifting activities to the performance criteria
specified in Unit 1, incorporating the full range of tasks specified below:
Rigging Tasks:
1. Obtain and position the lifting equipment and lifting accessories as detailed in the lifting plan.
2. Lift, cross haul and lower loads.
3. Move loads where there are obstructions restricting the direct path of the load (e.g., over, under
or around pipework).
UNIT 1 – Prepare, Lift and Move Loads (Practical)
Outcomes Criteria
The learner will perform:

3. 3.1 Communicate, discuss and ensure understanding of the prepared lifting
Preparation for plan and risk assessment with the lifting team and ensure control
lifting and moving measures are implemented
of loads 3.2 Carry out dynamic risk assessment for any additional potential hazards
associated with the lifting operation
3.3 Implement any additional control measures to address the identified
hazards (if identified in 3.2)
3.4 Communicate, discuss and agree with appropriate personnel, actions to
take related to the lifting operation in the event of an emergency
3.5 Inform the relevant personnel of the lifting operation and identify any
potential disruption to operations
3.6 Obtain the resources identified in the lifting plan required to move the
load, following relevant rigging loft procedures.
3.7 Carry out pre-use inspection of lifting equipment and certification is
current
3.8 Ensure the lifting equipment is free of obvious defects throughout the
duration of the task
3.9 Prepare the load according to specified requirements of the lifting plan
3.10 Protect the load from damage during the lifting operation
3.11 Attach the lifting accessories to the load using industry best practice
3.12 Determine the centre of gravity of a load that has an offset centre of
gravity

3.13 Install and position the lifting equipment for balanced weight
distribution
3.14 Ensure appropriate barriers are installed at appropriate areas
4. 4.1 Give clear instructions to the lifting team before and during the moving
Lifting, moving, of the load
lowering and 4.2 Use the identified method of communications derived from the risk
landing of a load assessment, lifting plan and permit-to-work, and comply with signaling
protocols agreed within the lifting team, or company-specific protocols
4.3 Progressively apply force/tension to the load via the attached lifting
equipment, until the weight of the load is fully taken up
4.4 Confirm the load security before raising to the minimum height required
for moving
4.5 Maintain load security and stability throughout transportation of the
load
4.6 Take adequate precautions to maintain the safety of personnel and
surroundings during the moving of the load
4.7 Correctly position the load in the intended location and progressively
remove the lifting equipment force/tension
4.8 Safely disconnect the load from the lifting equipment and remove the
lifting accessories
4.9 Work effectively as part of a team
4.10 Compliance with relevant health and safety legislation and guidelines at
all times
Note: During the assessment, the learner must take account of the relevant worksite operational
requirements, procedures and safe working practices.
The learner will be assessed against the outcomes and corresponding criteria.
Assessment Practical Outcomes
guidance Centres must ensure that learners are assessed against the theoretical
outcomes specified in each unit prior to any practical assessment taking place,
where applicable. There will be instances where it is most appropriate to assess
the learner’s knowledge and practical skills simultaneously.
Learners will be assessed through observation undertaking practical exercises
covering all the criteria specified.
Learners must successfully complete all practical exercises to achieve the Unit.
Specific knowledge assessment requirements are detailed in Section A.6 of this
standard

A.6 Learner Competence Assessment / Reassessment
The OPITO-approved Assessment Centre must confirm that that the learner is eligible to undertake the
Rigger Competence Assessment or Rigger Competence Reassessment.
Knowledge Assessment
Learners will be required to undertake a written or electronic knowledge assessment test which covers
the outcomes and corresponding criteria stated in Outcomes 1 & 2 of Unit 1. Each of the criteria must be
covered. The knowledge assessment must be a ‘closed book’ format, questions must be clearly referenced
against specific Criteria and question selection must be random. The knowledge test must incorporate
written and/or scenario-based questions and multiple-choice questions. A maximum of 50% of questions
should be multiple choice. Learners must achieve a pass mark of 80% or higher of the criteria to
successfully complete the knowledge assessment.
Records of methods used and results must be maintained.
Practical Assessment
The practical assessment will consist of the following:
(a) The learner must be briefed to ensure he/she knows how the assessment will be conducted
and what is expected of him/her during the assessment.
(b) The OPITO-approved Assessment Centre must provide learner with lifting plans for the lifting
operations to be undertaken, that have been approved by a *competent person.
(c) The OPITO-approved Assessment Centre must provide learner with risk assessments for the
lifting operations to be undertaken, that have been approved by a *competent person.
(d) The assessor must provide feedback to the learner following completion of the practical
assessments.
Each learner will be expected to lead two lifting operations and assist with two lifting operations. Each
lifting operation should be of approximately one and a half hours duration and include rigging activities.
The combined lifting operations (two lead and two assisted) must include all lifting equipment as
detailed in section B.5.
The lifting operations must be either:
(a) Taken from a bank of lifting exercises (complete with risk assessments and lifting plans) - prepared
in advance by the Assessment Centre.
Or
(b) Planned workplace lifting operations (complete with risk assessments and lifting plans) that tests
the learner against the Unit criteria specified in this section.

When leading the lifting operation, the learner will be expected to brief the team (toolbox talk), allocate
tasks and give clear instructions.
Note: Risk assessments and lifting plans must be approved by a *competent person
*Competent Person: A person nominated to approve risk assessments and lifting plans by virtue of
relevant knowledge and expertise.
Centres must have a documented procedure in place for dealing with persons not meeting the stated
outcomes and criteria.
In addition, records of all knowledge assessments undertaken and completed by the learner must be
retained by the Centre for audit purposes.
The successful learner i.e. the learner that fully meets the knowledge and practical assessment /
reassessment standard will then be deemed competent to undertake Rigger operations in the workplace.
Where a learner does not meet the required assessment outcomes: the assessor must clearly identify and
record the outcomes which have not been met and suggest any further training requirements. The
Assessment Centre must provide the learner and the learner’s employer with a written report identifying
why the learner was unsuccessful and suggest any further training requirement – within 7 days of the
assessment.
Centres are required to complete, and learners to sign, the OPITO Rigger Competence Assessment/
Reassessment Record in Appendix 1
If the learner does not meet the requirements of the Rigger Competence Assessment Standard:
No certificate will be awarded and the learner must retake the Rigger Competence Assessment.
Notes for the Assessor
1. Where the assessment is conducted at the worksite, the tasks associated with the practical
assessment must be conducted within a realistic timeframe. The Assessor will determine a
reasonable timeframe for the learner to complete each task – considering worksite environment
and activities.
2. An approved assessment checklist and record sheet must be used and will be made available to
the Assessor (Refer to Appendix 1) by the OPITO-approved Assessment Centre.

A.7 Guided Learning Hours
The learners will be expected to conduct two rigging and lifting operations for their assessment, where
they will be expected to lead the rigging and lifting operations.
Learners will also be required to assist other learners on two rigging and lifting operations.
The expected timings are:
1.5 hours per rigging and lifting operation (This time is for guidance. Where deemed appropriate by the
assessor, where time allows and within reason, additional time may be given to complete a lift.)
Up to 1.5 hours allowed for the written test
Note: Where assessment is conducted in the workplace: it must be completed within one trip or hitch;
the length of the trip/hitch would depend on individual company work cycles.

SECTION B Resources
B.1 Location of Assessment
It is recognised that certain elements of competence assessment can be more robust when carried out
‘on-the-job’. Accordingly, this Standard has been deemed suitable for ‘on-location’ assessment.
However, prior to any such assessments taking place, OPITO-Approved Training & Assessment Centres
must comply with the following requirements:
(a) Prior to initial approval, the Centre will specify a single onshore ‘approved site’ and advise
OPITO of its intention to conduct assessments remotely, i.e. ‘on-location.’
(b) Prior to initial approval, the Centre will advise OPITO where all their remote assessments are
expected to take place. After approval is awarded, any additional locations must be
communicated to OPITO as and when they arise.
(c) The Centre shall ensure the suitability of ‘on-location’ facilities and arrangements prior to each
assessment.
(d) Documented evidence will be retained to show that assessment at the remote site meets the
criteria detailed in this OPITO standard including, but not limited to, facilities, equipment and
qualifications of relevant staff (see Section B.2).
(e) Documented evidence shall be retained that record all measures required to assure the quality
and safety of ‘on-location’ assessment activities.
(f) All records must be retained at the single onshore ‘approved site’ (see Point (a) above).
(g) OPITO reserves the right to audit any or all the remote sites operated by the Centre at any time

B.2 Staff
In order that an assessment programme may be delivered successfully it is essential that the right people
are in place to support the programme.
Assessors must:
(a) Be occupationally competent (see glossary for definition)

(b) Hold an industry-recognised assessor qualification
(c) Fully understand the OPITO-approved Assessment Centre’s internal quality assurance of
assessment processes and practices.
(d) Fully understand the requirements of this Industry Standard
(e) Fully understand the OPITO requirements for recording assessment decisions and securely
maintaining accurate records of these.
(f) Participate in regular standardisation meetings or events to ensure a consistent approach
to assessment.
(g) Undertake and record continuing professional development (CPD).
*It is the responsibility of the Centre to confirm and demonstrate appropriate equivalency of the
Assessor’s qualification/certification.
All staff will have the appropriate competencies to conduct or assist with the element of assessment being
undertaken.
B.3 Assessor / Learner Ratio
The maximum number of learners undertaking the practical assessment is four

The minimum number of learners undertaking the practical assessment is two
The assessor-to-learner ratio is 1:1 (while four learners may be assessed within the group of learners, the
assessor can only fully assess one learner at a time)
In instances where there are only two learners are under assessment, the training programme may be
completed over the duration of a single day.

B.4 Facilities
OPITO-approved Assessment Centres must, as a minimum, comply with the following:
Practical assessments must be planned to ensure that all the learners get an equal opportunity to
demonstrate their rigging and lifting skills - as specified in this Standard.
All facilities must be maintained and where appropriate, inspected and tested in accordance with
current standards/legislation.
B.5 Equipment
As a minimum, the following equipment is required to meet the stated content of the Rigger Competence
Assessment:
1) Appropriate PPE e.g. safety boots, safety helmet, eye protection, hearing protection and
gloves.
2) A variety of loads to be lifted e.g. structural steelwork, steelwork assemblies, pipework
assemblies, plant and equipment, loads with an offset centre of gravity etc.
3) Examples damaged lifting equipment and lifting accessories
4) Appropriate lifting equipment typically found in a workplace rigging loft, to include:
Chain blocks Chain Slings

Lever hoists Wire rope slings
Snatch blocks Fibre slings
Wire rope hoist (Tirfor) Eye bolts and Eye nuts
Beam clamps (universal and standard) Swivel hoist rings
Beam trolley Turnbuckles
Master links Jacks*
Shackles Machine skates*
*Where specific equipment is unavailable due to regional differences if operations or practice,

appropriate substitutes may be implemented. Where alternative equipment is used it must allow for the
same lifting operation outcome.
All equipment must be maintained, inspected and tested in accordance with applicable legislation and
standards. Certificates and maintenance schedules should be always available.
Note: Damaged lifting equipment - purposely used for specific assessment criteria by the approved centre
- must be securely controlled and clearly identifiable to the assessor and centre support staff.

SECTION C Certification & Administration
C.1 Joining Instructions
The OPITO-approved Assessment Centre must provide the learner either with a copy of the OPITO-
approved Rigger Competence Assessment or Reassessment Standard or a link to the Standard on the
OPITO website - so that the learner can make himself/herself aware of the requirements of the Standard.
C.2 Validity and Renewal
The Rigger Competence Assessment Certificate is valid for two years
The Rigger Competence Reassessment Certificate is valid for two years
C.3 Certification
The Rigger Competence Assessment / Reassessment certificate will only be awarded if the learner
successfully completes both the Knowledge Assessment and the Practical Assessment.
OPITO approved Centres are responsible for issuing a certificate direct to the learner completing the
programme and to the sponsoring company (when required). Each certificate must indicate that the
learner has been assessed against and met the learning outcomes and must contain the following:
(a) OPITO approved Centre name

(b) Full OPITO course title stating that it is OPITO-approved
(c) OPITO registration code
(d) Learner's name
(e) Course dates
(f) Expiry date (Two years minus one day following the date that the learner successfully completes
the course)
(g) Unique Certificate Number (UNC) - Refer to Unique Certificate Numbering system on the OPITO
website
(h) OPITO-approved Centre Signatory.
Note: If the expiry date on the learner’s previous certificate is within 3 months of the course enrolment
date, then the date of the new certificate must correspond with the expiry date of the existing/previous
certificate unless stated otherwise by the Duty Holder or Asset Owner or Operator.

C.4 Assessment Administration
Each learner attending any OPITO-approved programme must be registered with the Central Register (CR)
operated by OPITO. Registration must be made by the centre to OPITO within one week following the
course.
OPITO confirms that information on the registration form will be contained in a computerised register
which will be available to employers, prospective employers and centres in the energy industry to verify
training records. At all times, use of this data will be strictly in accordance with principles laid down in
data protection legislation.

Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations
Assessor A suitably qualified and experienced person appointed by the OPITO-approved

Centre to make accurate and objective decisions as to whether an individual’s
knowledge and performance meet the requirements specified in the relevant
OPITO-approved standard.
FPSO Floating Production Storage and Offloading (vessel)
Learner For the purpose of this document and in relation to Approvals held for any
OPITO Standards, those carrying out the training and/or assessment are
referred to as Learners.
Lifting Equipment Any work equipment for lifting and lowering loads, and includes any
accessories used in doing so (such as attachments to support, fix or anchor
the equipment).
Lifting Appliances Machine or device used for vertical movement of a load, with or without
horizontal movement.
Lifting Accessories Equipment that is used to attach the load to lifting equipment, providing a link
between the two. Any lifting accessories used between lifting equipment and
the load may need to be considered in determining the overall weight of the
load.
Occupationally Competent Assessors must be occupationally competent in the discipline area of the
Standards they are assessing against – this could be demonstrated in
several different ways:
• they are an experienced practitioner or supervisor in the same

discipline.
• they have been assessed as competent for the relevant
Standard(s) and/or have achieved an equivalent qualification by
a nationally recognised awarding body.*
• they have previously performed or supervised the activities
defined in the Standard(s) and can demonstrate that they have
maintained their technical expertise and knowledge of current
processes and practices.
*It is the responsibility of the Centre to confirm and demonstrate appropriate equivalency of the
Assessor’s qualification/certification.
Restricted Access A lifting operation where there are restrictions to the access of the load to be
moved or restrictions to the route of the load.

Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations (continued)
Rigging A term used for the installation and removal of the lifting equipment and lifting
accessories that will be used in a lifting operation
SWL Safe Working Load
TBT Toolbox Talk
Valid Certificate An authentic certificate which is in-date i.e. has not expired
WLL Working Load Limit

Appendix 1: OPITO Rigger Competence Assessment / Reassessment Checklist and

Record
The following pages contain the OPITO Rigger Competence Assessment/ Reassessment Assessor
Checklists and the Assessment Record sheets.
Although OPITO-approved Centres may develop their own versions of the OPITO Rigger Competence
Assessment/ Reassessment Assessor Checklist, these must, as a minimum, include all the information
contained in the OPITO Rigger Competence Assessment/ Reassessment Assessor Checklist sheets
specified within this standard – see next pages for the OPITO Rigger Competence Assessment/
Reassessment Assessor Checklist.
Checklist Notes
Assessment Performance Criteria
Checklist Reference numbers relate to Performance and Knowledge Criteria specified in Unit 1.
Assessment Underpinning knowledge criteria

The Assessor can infer knowledge and understanding by:
(a) Observing the learner performing the rigging task

(b) Asking the learner questions during the assessment
(c) The learner correctly answering the relevant questions from the written test (see Section A6).
Checklist Abbreviations
VQ Verbal Questioning
OBS Observation
WT Written Test

OPITO Rigger Competence Assessment/ Reassessment Assessor Checklist

Rigger Competence Assessment Ri Rigger Competence Reassessment
Assessment Centre and
Address
Learner Name Employer No.
Assessor Name Employer No.
Unit 1 Prepare, Lift and Move Loads
Outcome 1 Prepare for lifting and moving of loads

VQ /
Achieved
Ref No. Knowledge Criteria Y/N
OBS / Comments
WT
1.1 The hazards associated with a lifting operation
The purpose of a lifting plan and who produces
1.2
one
1.3 The purpose of a lifting risk assessment
Why a lifting plan must be followed and what
1.4 to do if it is not understood or cannot be
followed
1.5 How to determine the weight of loads
The relevant roles of personnel involved in
1.6
lifting operations, and typical reporting lines
How to identify areas near the load where it is
1.7
unsafe to stand
Load movement route planning methods and
1.8
techniques
Areas of the installation/site which need
1.9 special consideration if a load needs to be
landed near or passes close to those areas
1.10 Rigging principles, SWL, WLL and angles of lift
Why lifting equipment and lifting accessories
1.11
are marked e.g. SWL and WLL
Pre-use inspections of lifting equipment and
1.12
lifting accessories
Considerations to ensure load stability, security
1.13
and weight distribution
The types of faults that are possible with lifting
1.14
equipment and lifting accessories
1.15 The function of a toolbox talk
The key information to be included in handovers
1.16
during lifting operations
1.17 Types of lifting accessories

The vulnerability of synthetic slings to damage

1.18
and their correct use
The purpose of a rigging loft and the quarantine
1.19
system
1.20 How to take account of dynamic factors
Outcome 2 Lifting, moving, lowering and landing of a load

The capabilities and limitations of lifting
2.1
Pre use and post use inspections of lifting
2.2
How to identify and report defective lifting
2.3 equipment, lifting accessories and associated
materials
How to correctly store various items of lifting
2.4
How to restore the worksite and return lifting
2.5 equipment and lifting accessories to the required
location
2.6 How to conduct post-work debriefings
Assessment
Assessor Signature
Date

OPITO Rigger Competence Assessment/ Reassessment Assessor Checklist

Rigger Competence Assessment Ri Rigger Competence Reassessment
Address
Unit 1 Prepare, Lift and Move Loads

Performance
Outcome 3 Prepare for lifting and moving of loads
VQ /
Achieved
Ref No. Performance Criteria Y/N
OBS / Comments
WT
Communicate, discuss and ensure understanding
of the prepared lifting plan and risk assessment
3.1
with the lifting team and ensure control
measures are implemented
Carry out dynamic risk assessment for any
3.2 additional potential hazards associated with the
lifting operation
Implement any additional control measures to
3.3 address the identified hazards (if identified in
3.2)
Communicate, discuss and agree with
appropriate personnel, actions to take related to
3.4
the lifting operation in the event of an
emergency
Inform the relevant personnel of the lifting
3.5 operation and identify any potential disruption
to operations
Obtain the resources identified in the lifting plan
3.6 required to move the load, following relevant
rigging loft procedures.
Carry out pre-use inspection of lifting equipment
3.7 and certification is current
Ensure the lifting equipment is free of obvious
3.8 defects throughout the duration of the task
Prepare the load according to specified
3.9 requirements of the lifting plan
Protect the load from damage during the lifting
3.10 operation
Attach the lifting accessories to the load using
3.11 industry best practice
Determine the centre of gravity of a load that
3.12 has an offset centre of gravity

Install and position the lifting equipment for

3.13 balanced weight distribution
Ensure appropriate barriers are installed at
3.14 appropriate areas
Outcome 2 Lifting, moving, lowering and landing of a load

Give clear instructions to the lifting team
4.1 before and during the moving of the load
Use the identified method of communications
derived from the risk assessment, lifting plan and
4.2 permit-to-work, and comply with signaling
protocols agreed within the lifting team, or
company-specific protocols
Progressively apply force/tension to the load via
4.3 the attached lifting equipment, until the weight
of the load is fully taken up
Confirm the load security before raising to the
4.4 minimum height required for moving
Maintain load security and stability throughout
4.5 transportation of the load
Take adequate precautions to maintain the safety
4.6 of personnel and surroundings during the moving
of the load
Correctly position the load in the intended
4.7 location and progressively remove the lifting
equipment force/tension
Safely disconnect the load from the lifting
4.8 equipment and remove the lifting accessories
Work effectively as part of a team
4.9
Compliance with relevant health and safety

4.10 legislation and guidelines at all times
Assessment
Assessor Signature
Date

OPITO Rigger Competence Assessment / Reassessment Record

Rigger Competence Assessment Rigger Competence Reassessment
Assessment Centre and Address
Address
Vantage No (If
applicable)
Unit Unit 1 Rigger role
Unit Title Prepare, Lift and Move Loads
I can confirm that the learner *has met / has not met the assessment criteria for
Assessor comments this Unit
*Delete as applicable
Feedback to Learner:
Note: If the learner has not met the Assessment Criteria for this Unit: state the reasons why and suggested any
training requirement to address the competence gap.
Assessor
Sign
Date
Learner
Learner comments
Sign
Date


Rigger Competence Assessment and Reassessment Standard Rev.2 Amendment 2 February 2022

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Rigger Competence Assessment and Reassessment Standard Rev.2 Amendment 2 February 2022

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Rigger Competence Assessment

and Reassessment Standard

Standard Title Code

Revision 2 Amendment 2 (February 2022) Page 2 of 30

A7 & B7: changed wording to 11 & 20

Amendment 3 – January 2020 –

Revision 2 Standard Review Product Product Director

Section A.2 – Amended Pages 8&9

Updated Progression Guide to

Section B.5 - Additional guidance

Revision 2 Amendment 2 (February 2022) Page 3 of 30

Section A.6 – Updated practical

Section A.7 – Amended guidance

Additional detail regarding

Updated terminology and removal

Updated Glossary Page 21

2 February 2022 Product

Any amendments to this Standard by OPITO will be recorded above.

Revision 2 Amendment 2 (February 2022) Page 4 of 30

Revision 2 Amendment 2 (February 2022) Page 5 of 30

The four key stages are:

1) Rigger Initial Training

2) Rigger Workplace Experience Logbook

3) Rigger Competence Assessment

4) Rigger Competence Reassessment

Revision 2 Amendment 2 (February 2022) Page 6 of 30

OPITO Rigger Standards: Four-Stage Progression Guide

Description Success Requirement Successful Unsuccessful

Revision 2 Amendment 2 (February 2022) Page 7 of 30

SECTION A Rigger Competence Assessment and Reassessment

A.1 Target Group

Rigger Competence Assessment

Rigger Competence Reassessment

Rigger Competence Assessment

Learners must possess:

Revision 2 Amendment 2 (February 2022) Page 8 of 30

Rigger Competence Reassessment

A.3 Physical and Stressful Demands

Revision 2 Amendment 2 (February 2022) Page 9 of 30

A.4 Aim and Objectives

Revision 2 Amendment 2 (February 2022) Page 10 of 30

A.5 Outcomes of the Rigger Competence Assessment and Reassessment

UNIT 1 – Prepare, Lift and Move Loads

The learner will understand:

Revision 2 Amendment 2 (February 2022) Page 11 of 30

Assessment Knowledge Outcomes

UNIT 1 – Prepare, Lift and Move Loads (Practical)

The learner will perform:

Revision 2 Amendment 2 (February 2022) Page 12 of 30

Revision 2 Amendment 2 (February 2022) Page 13 of 30

A.6 Learner Competence Assessment / Reassessment

The practical assessment will consist of the following:

The lifting operations must be either:

Revision 2 Amendment 2 (February 2022) Page 14 of 30

Notes for the Assessor

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A.7 Guided Learning Hours

The expected timings are:

Up to 1.5 hours allowed for the written test

Revision 2 Amendment 2 (February 2022) Page 16 of 30

B.1 Location of Assessment

Revision 2 Amendment 2 (February 2022) Page 17 of 30

(a) Be occupationally competent (see glossary for definition)